Heart Attack Warning Signs

Every year, Americans have 1.2 million heart attacks. Fortunately, more and more people are surviving heart attacks because they recognize the signs.

While some heart attacks are sudden and obvious, most start slowly and with only mild discomfort. Become familiar with the signs and you may save someone's life, or even your own.

Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

• Chest discomfort (i.e. uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain)
• Pain in their back, neck, jaw, stomach, or one or both of their arms
• Trouble breathing
• Cold sweats
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Severe headache - especially in older adults
• A feeling of "doom"

Women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

In addition, minorities, and older adults are more likely to have heart attacks without chest pain. So are people with diabetes, heart failure and a history of stroke.

If you or someone you're with has chest discomfort, especially with one or more of the signs above, don't wait longer than even five minutes before calling for help. Call 9-1-1 and get to a hospital right away!

Is Your Heart at Risk?

Learn more about how to identify your heart risk factors through our new program, What's Your L?